Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Peace, Refutes Allegations by Niger’s Military Leader.

By Caroline Ameh

The Nigerian government has strongly refuted accusations made by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the military leader of Niger Republic, alleging a covert alliance between Nigeria and France to destabilize Niger.

In a statement issued on December 26, 2024, by Mohammed Idris, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, the Federal Government dismissed the claims as unfounded and baseless. Idris clarified that Nigeria has never engaged in any partnership, overt or covert, with France or any other country to sponsor terrorism or undermine Niger’s stability.

The statement emphasized Nigeria’s dedication to fostering peace and maintaining historic diplomatic ties with Niger, despite the current political climate in the neighboring country. Minister Idris underscored the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who, as Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), has continuously sought diplomatic solutions to Niger’s political impasse.

“Nigeria’s Armed Forces, in collaboration with the Multinational Joint Task Force, have made significant strides in combating terrorism within the region,” Idris noted. “It is absurd to suggest that Nigeria would conspire with any foreign power to compromise the peace and security of a neighboring nation.”

The statement also addressed specific claims made by General Tchiani, including allegations of a so-called Lakurawa terrorist headquarters in Sokoto State. Idris highlighted the launch of “Operation Forest Sanity III,” a military initiative codenamed “Operation Chase Lakurawa Out,” as evidence of Nigeria’s active efforts to eliminate terrorist threats in the region.

“How can a government actively fighting the Lakurawa menace be accused of harboring the same group within its borders? These accusations are without credible evidence and appear to be a distraction from Niger’s internal challenges,” the minister stated.

Additionally, Idris refuted allegations that Nigeria seeks to sabotage Niger’s pipelines and agriculture. He pointed to joint economic projects, such as the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and the Kano-Maradi Railway Project, as evidence of Nigeria’s commitment to Niger’s economic development.

The Minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s long-standing tradition of safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity, noting that Nigeria has never allowed foreign military bases on its soil. “Unlike some nations, Nigeria has consistently demonstrated its commitment to national independence and regional leadership,” he said.

He further dismissed claims of Nigeria ceding its territory for subversive operations, calling such allegations “both unfounded and counterproductive.”

The statement concluded with a call for credible evidence to substantiate the allegations. Idris urged the public to disregard the claims, labeling them as an attempt to deflect attention from Niger’s internal issues.

“General Tchiani’s allegations are not only baseless but also a dangerous distraction from his administration’s shortcomings,” Idris said. “Nigeria remains committed to fostering regional stability and addressing transnational challenges. We urge Niger to focus on constructive dialogue and collaboration rather than peddling baseless accusations.”